Top News Today (13 August): India, World, Economy & Odisha

India

1. Tamil Nadu Assembly Opposes Delimitation Based on Future Population

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has passed a resolution opposing delimitation based on future population figures. It urged the Centre to retain the 1971 population-based constituency ratio or maintain 543 Lok Sabha seats, protecting states that successfully controlled population growth.

2. Karnataka Bans Gutkha and Tobacco-Based Pan Masala for One Year

Karnataka has imposed a one-year ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine. The state cited serious public health risks and the need to strengthen cancer prevention measures.

3. China Accused of Blocking Indian Patrols in Arunachal Pradesh

Reports have alleged that Chinese PLA troops restricted Indian security forces from accessing traditional patrolling points in Arunachal Pradesh’s Taksing sector. However, the Indian Army and state authorities rejected the claims, maintaining that Indian forces firmly control the LAC.

4. Inquiry Panel Finds All Charges Proved Against Justice Yashwant Varma

A parliamentary inquiry committee has concluded that all three charges against former High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma stand proved. The panel cited unaccounted cash found after a fire and criticised his failure to preserve evidence and provide satisfactory explanations.

World

5. Pakistan Army Dismisses Rumours of Imran Khan’s Death

Pakistan’s military has rejected social media reports claiming jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan had died or suffered a critical health emergency. The Inter-Services Public Relations said the reports were baseless, amid concerns triggered by restricted access to his prison.

6. US Restricts Federal Support for Gender-Transition Treatments for Minors

The US administration has introduced measures restricting federal funding and support for gender-transition procedures involving people under 19. The policy affects federally funded healthcare programmes and targets financial support for institutions providing gender-affirming medical treatments to minors.

Economy

7. Rural Inflation Continues to Outpace Urban Inflation in India

India’s rural inflation continues to run higher than urban inflation, according to government data. Higher food prices, particularly vegetables, pulses and spices, along with transportation and fuel costs, are putting greater pressure on rural households and weakening purchasing power.

8. N. Chandrasekaran to Step Down as Tata Sons Chairman in 2027

N. Chandrasekaran will step down as Tata Sons Executive Chairman after completing his current term in February 2027. He has declined reappointment and asked the board to begin a formal succession process to ensure a smooth leadership transition.